The first polling stations have closed in the US midterm elections, with voting ending at 6 p.m. local time in parts of Indiana and Kentucky. Because the country spans several time zones, polls in much of Alaska and Hawaii are due to remain open until 6 a.m. Central European Time.
The elections put Republicans’ narrow majorities in both chambers of Congress at risk. They are also seen as a key test of public sentiment toward President Donald Trump, roughly two years after his return to the White House.
Initial results are expected overnight, but it is not yet clear when control of the House of Representatives and Senate will be determined. Close races could take several days to resolve.
Millions of Americans voted before Election Day. Nearly 61 million had cast ballots in advance, according to the University of Florida’s Election Lab, compared with almost 46 million in the 2022 midterms.
Sources: Handelsblatt.